Revealing the degradation pathways of layered Li-rich oxide cathodes

Layered lithium-rich transition metal oxides are promising cathode candidates for high-energy-density lithium batteries due to the redox contributions from transition metal cations and oxygen anions. However, their practical application is hindered by gradual capacity fading and voltage decay. Although oxygen loss and phase transformation are recognized as primary factors, the structural deterioration, chemical rearrangement, kinetic and thermodynamic effects remain unclear. Here we integrate analysis of morphological, structural and oxidation state evolution from individual atoms to secondary particles. By performing nanoscale to microscale characterizations, distinct structural change pathways associated with intraparticle heterogeneous reactions are identified. The high level of oxygen defects formed throughout the particle by slow electrochemical activation triggers progressive phase transformation and the formation of nanovoids. Ultrafast lithium (de)intercalation leads to oxygen-distortion-dominated lattice displacement, transition metal ion dissolution and lithium site variation. These inhomogeneous and irreversible structural changes are responsible for the low initial Coulombic efficiency, and ongoing particle cracking and expansion in the subsequent cycles.